Iran has officially unveiled the Kheibar missile—also known as Khorramshahr-4—a significant addition to its ballistic missile arsenal. The Kheibar is a medium-range, precision-guided missile developed by Iran’s Ministry of Defense, and it represents a major leap in both strategic deterrence and technological sophistication.
Kheibar Missile: Specifications
- Range: 2,000 kilometers
- Warhead: 1,500 kilograms
- Propulsion: Liquid-fueled engine
- Launch Preparation: Less than 12 minutes due to hypergolic (self-igniting) fuel and streamlined launch protocols
- Speed: Up to Mach 16 outside the atmosphere, Mach 8 inside
- Guidance: Advanced mid-flight control system, allowing trajectory adjustments outside the atmosphere and immunity to electronic warfare attacks
- Accuracy: High, thanks to satellite-assisted targeting and inertial guidance systems
Strategic Features
- Survivability and Deterrence:
The Kheibar’s rapid launch capability and maneuverable warhead make it difficult for enemy air defenses to intercept, enhancing its value as a deterrent against regional adversaries. - Penetration Capabilities:
The missile’s warhead can separate mid-flight and maneuver to evade advanced missile defense systems, including Israel’s Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems. - Payload Flexibility:
The heavy warhead allows for significant destructive power, targeting strategic infrastructure or military assets deep within enemy territory. - Symbolic Naming:
The name “Kheibar” references a historic fortress captured in early Islamic history, underscoring the missile’s psychological and political messaging within the region5.
Regional and Political Impact
- Strategic Deterrent:
The Kheibar missile’s range covers much of the Middle East, including Israel, and is intended to bolster Iran’s deterrence posture amid ongoing regional tensions15. - Defensive Doctrine:
Iranian officials emphasize that the missile program is for defense and deterrence, not for offensive aggression. - Response to Threats:
The unveiling comes amid heightened tensions and is seen as a direct response to perceived threats from Israel and the United States, as well as recent attacks on Iranian territory
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